Jones, Macca and Roger Key To Chopra's Return

Cardiff City`s returned striker Michael Chopra is back as a Bluebird and revealed his reasoning for opting to re-join the Bluebirds rather than struggle for chances at Sunderland, or join one of several other clubs vying for his signature.

It was the presence of manager Dave Jones, along with players Roger Johnson and Stephen McPhail that convinced Chops to come back and spearhead our promotion push.

Chopra told BBC Sport:

'All the lads are basically the same as when I was last here, that had a major influence,'

'I get on really well with Dave Jones and some of the players.'

Chopra has known Stephen McPhail for many years after the pair spent time together in Barnsley, during his first spell as a Bluebird - the pair lived close-by just outside Cowbridge until Chopra`s departure to join Sunderland.

Also very close to the former Newcastle United striker is defender Roger Johnson. The two became inseparable at Cardiff City and were two of the main culprits for any dressing room pranks at the club. Johnson was instrumental in persuading his mate to come back and both share the ambition to become established Premiership players.

At present, Chops is on loan. A deal has been agreed for the end of the season, but he may decide not to join should the Bluebirds fail to achieve promotion. Hopefully, his goals and added competition will give us a very good chance.